Are pitbulls really dangerous dogs or is all of that hype? (dog attack reference)

Anyone who has had dog trauma could possibly be triggered.. just an FYI...

Is it a media thing? I hear many pitbull owners say its all a media thing that you only hear the bad things about pitbulls. They say that little dogs are actually the worst. I do not read about little dogs killing their owners though. There was this woman around here that was wonderful and had the sweetest pitbulls, friendly and everything. Personally I am scared of them but I was attacked and "locked down" when I was playing with one when I was ten. but didn't bite down but it scared the crap out of me and I have been afraid ever since. What do you all think? I think a lot of it can be irresponsible ownership too. Oftentimes you will hear that a yard was not secure or the pitbull wasnt on a leash or got away from the owner but still... they are scary dogs and they are one of the few breeds that seem to My dad had two pitbulls and 3 cats. All grew up together and loved each other. The cats didnt take any crap from them and ran the house. He came home one day and he had no idea why.
What are your thoughts?